One of my favorite things about being an English teacher is hearing my students have deep discussions about literature. I mean half of the people I know go to book clubs for fun, so how awesome is it that I get paid to do this!? …sans wine 😉 The value of Socratic Seminars is tremendous, but just like with anything, hosting them the same way every time can become mundane for you and your ... Read More about How to Liven Up Your Socratic Seminar and Get Students Talking
How to Create a Digital Blackout Poem in PowerPoint or OneNote
(Scroll Down for OneNote Directions!) My tutorial on how to create a digital blackout poem using Google Slides has been a hit, so I wanted to give Microsoft users some love as well. :) When I design my digital lessons, I always make them Google Classroom, Microsoft, and LMS compatible so no matter which platform your school is using, you can enjoy these paper free options! For example, I love ... Read More about How to Create a Digital Blackout Poem in PowerPoint or OneNote
How to Create a Blackout Poem Using Google Slides
There's a certain zen quality to creating traditional blackout poems...that is until in your Sharpie induced brain fog, you accidently mark over a word you needed then have to start all over. ;) The zen before the breakdown, ha I love assigning blackout poems when we read challenging texts. I feel that it gives students a fun and effective way of finding main points, revealing author's craft, ... Read More about How to Create a Blackout Poem Using Google Slides
5 Student Gift Ideas From Their Teacher This Christmas
The holidays are just around the corner, and you’re probably feeling the excitement (and maybe a little stress) that comes with the days leading up to winter break. If you enjoy handing out student gifts, you might be trying to brainstorm some thoughtful, fun, and budget-friendly student gift ideas. Trust me, I’ve been there—planning student gifts for my high schoolers while juggling lesson plans ... Read More about 5 Student Gift Ideas From Their Teacher This Christmas
Christmas Holiday ELA Activities for Middle and High School
I love the holidays, so sprinkling in classroom cheer really adds a lot of joy to my work life! As a high school or middle school English teacher, you can ensure the final days before winter break are filled with fun, educational activities that keep your students engaged and learning to the last day. These holiday ELA activities will help you do just that! Christmas Holiday ELA ... Read More about Christmas Holiday ELA Activities for Middle and High School
How to Incorporate Independent Reading with Middle and High School Students
It’s my mission in life to make sure secondary students don’t lose their love of reading. Elementary teachers do a fantastic job of making reading a magical experience, and I believe this magic can continue in middle and high school as well. One way I’ve fostered a love of books in my classroom is with free-choice independent reading. When to do free-choice reading Students get 10 ... Read More about How to Incorporate Independent Reading with Middle and High School Students
